Technical theatre apprenticeship

Technical theatre plays a vital role in creating the right ambiance for audiences to enjoy theatrical performances.

Sound, lighting and special effects can dramatically alter the mood and shape of a performance to delight audiences.

This apprenticeship has been designed to attract talent into off-stage/backstage roles and to provide apprentices with the specialised skills they need for career progression and future employment. There are three pathways in technical theatre to choose from: Lighting, Sound and Stage.

As an Intermediate Level apprentice on the Lighting pathway you could train as an assistant electrician, board/console operator, followspot operator or maintenance technician. On the Sound pathway you will train as an assistant sound technician. Those taking the Stage pathway will train as stage technicians or flymen.

Advanced Level apprentices on the Lighting pathway will train as senior electricians, lighting technicians or maintenance supervisors/managers. On the Sound pathway you could train as a senior sound technician, while if you opted for the Stage pathway you could train as a senior stage technician or head flyman.

You will need to show a keen interest in working in backstage roles. You will also understand the importance of working in teams and be willing to work shifts. Technicians have to handle equipment and be prepared to work at heights and in cramped conditions.

Technical theatre is part of the performing arts industry which has around 5,500 businesses, employing 100,000 people. The industry is growing rapidly and it is anticipated that 30,000 skilled workers will be needed in off-stage/backstage roles by 2017.